Trenton, NJ – Law enforcement responded early Tuesday to emailed threats targeting polling places in multiple New Jersey counties, prompting temporary closures and heightened security as voters headed to the polls.
Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin said officers quickly secured affected locations and reopened several after determining they were safe.
Voters at still-closed polling sites are being directed to nearby alternate locations to cast their ballots.
Key Points
- Threatening emails sent to polling places in seven New Jersey counties
- Some locations temporarily closed as law enforcement secured the sites
- Attorney General Platkin vowed swift accountability for any election interference
Threats prompt rapid police response statewide
According to the Attorney General’s Office, the emailed threats affected polling places in Bergen, Essex, Mercer, Middlesex, Monmouth, Ocean, and Passaic counties. Local, county, and federal agencies responded throughout the morning to ensure all sites were safe for voters and poll workers.
Platkin said law enforcement acted “swiftly” to investigate each threat, with several locations already cleared and reopened to the public. Authorities have not yet provided details about the source of the emails or whether they were linked.
Officials stress public safety and election confidence
In his statement, Platkin praised the work of police officers and election staff who maintained operations amid the disruptions. “We are grateful to the brave law enforcement officers and the dedicated poll workers who are working tirelessly to ensure everyone’s safety,” he said, emphasizing that voters should feel secure casting their ballots.
Investigation continues into threat origins
Officials said the ongoing investigation involves coordination between state, federal, and local law enforcement agencies. The Attorney General reiterated that any attempt to disrupt or intimidate voters would be met with prosecution. “We will not tolerate any attempts to interfere with our elections,” Platkin said.
Voters urged to stay alert and report suspicious activity
Authorities encouraged the public to remain vigilant and to immediately report any suspicious activity by calling 911. Election officials confirmed that all polling places will remain open or have designated alternate sites to ensure uninterrupted voting access throughout the day.